Riding helmets are essential pieces of safety equipment for anyone who is involved in horse riding. They provide protection from falls and other potential hazards that can occur when you’re out on the trails or in the show ring. But with so many different types of helmets available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of riding helmets, and their benefits and drawbacks.
Hard Shell Helmets
The most common type of riding helmet is the hard-shell helmet. These helmets have an outer shell made from either ABS plastic or fiberglass that helps protect your head from impact if you should fall off your horse. Hard shell helmets also usually have an adjustable chin strap, foam padding on the inside, and ventilation holes to help keep your head cool while you’re riding. However, they tend to be heavier than other types of riding helmets and can also be quite expensive.
Soft Shell Helmets
Soft shell helmets offer a lightweight alternative to traditional hard shell helmets. They typically feature a thin layer of foam-covered fabric that sits over your head, providing cushioning against impact should you fall off your horse. Soft shell helmets are often less expensive than their hard-shell counterparts and come in more stylish designs as well. However, they don’t provide quite as much protection as hard-shell models do in the event of a fall, so it’s important to make sure you wear them properly at all times when horseback riding.
Ventilated Helmets
For riders who need extra ventilation while they ride, ventilated helmets are a great option. These riding hats feature strategically placed vents that allow air to flow freely through them — keeping your head cool even on hot days out on the trails or in the show ring. Ventilated helmets usually come with an adjustable chin strap and padding on the inside for extra comfort as well as protection against impact if you should fall off your horse. Like soft-shell models, however, these types of helmets don’t offer quite as much protection as hard-shell models do if you experience a bad fall off your horse.
No matter what type of rider you are or what kind of helmet you decide to purchase for yourself or someone else, safety should always be your top priority when it comes to horseback riding activities. Investing in quality equestrian gear—including a good quality riding helmet—is always worth it in order to ensure you stay safe while enjoying this activity that we love so much! So take some time to research all the different types of horse riding helmets available today and find one that suits both your needs and budget – after all, safety first!